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Hidden Gems: Meet Tati Kosenko of 26 Candies LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tati Kosenko.

Hi Tati, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I didn’t start in desserts – I worked in film and TV for many years. Everything changed when I received a gift certificate for a chocolate-making class and completely fell in love with it. I began practicing at home, studying techniques, and sharing my experiments with family and friends.

In 2020 I launched 26 Candies, focusing on artisanal chocolates with natural ingredients and attention to every detail. In 2023 the collection grew with a line of petit fours – small desserts that let me explore new textures and flavors while keeping the same handmade quality.

It hasn’t always been easy, but I see each challenge as part of the journey. For me, it’s more than a business – it’s a passion that lets me create little moments of joy for people.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve faced rising costs, supply issues, and the challenge of working with chocolate, which is very delicate and unforgiving – you have to be real quick and precise. There were times I made mistakes or felt uncertain, but every struggle taught me to adapt and focus on quality. In the end, those challenges helped me grow stronger.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
What I’d love readers to know is that 26 Candies is more than just desserts – it’s about creating little experiences of joy. 26 Candies is a small artisan brand specializing in handmade chocolates and bite-sized desserts like French macarons, choux, and tartlettes, etc.. I use natural ingredients, no preservatives, and pay attention to every detail, from taste to presentation. What makes my brand unique is the personal touch – each box feels like a little gift. I’m proud that many of my clients return not just for the flavors, but for the feeling they get when opening a box – as if they’re unwrapping something made especially for them.

What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I always loved making things with my hands and often felt like I might have been a craftsman in a past life. I tried many different hobbies, but for most of them I didn’t have enough patience or focus to go very far. Chocolate and desserts were different – they completely captured me, and I loved how they combined creativity, precision, and the joy of sharing something beautiful with others.

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